Archive for the 'Petitions' Category

Before the last election, Tony Abbott promised “no cuts to the ABC”, but the cuts are coming: perhaps ten per cent of the ABC’s budget is in jeopardy. It’s certain that in response, the Board is contemplating cuts to the ABC’s current affairs coverage. Lateline could be axed, and some news coverage could be halved. Yet, as Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull has himself said many times, with the business models of commercial media in crisis, Australian democracy needs ABC news and current affairs programs now more than ever.

The demise of Lateline could be just the beginning. The ABC’s Friday 7.30 programs, which consistently break important local and state-based stories, could also go. So too could radio current affairs programs on ABC Local Radio and specialist programs on Radio National.

Decisions are expected as soon as this Wednesday – so we need to act now. Will you sign my petition?